Conjugated aromatic compounds with a pyridine substituent

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to compounds of formulae  
                 
The compounds of the present invention are NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate)-receptor subtype blockers and are used in the treatment of diseases related to this receptor.

PRIORITY TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/672,950, filed Sep. 26, 2003, now pending; which is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/277,002, filed Oct. 21, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,951,875. The entire contents of the above-identified applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention is related to compounds of the general formulae

Compounds of formula IA or IB are NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate)-receptor subtype selective blockers useful in the treatment or prevention of CNS disorders.

BACKGROUND

Under pathological conditions of acute and chronic forms of neurodegeneration overactivation of NMDA receptors is a key event for triggering neuronal cell death. NMDA receptors are composed of members from two subunit families, namely NR-1 (8 different splice variants) and NR-2 (A to D) originating from different genes. Members from the two subunit families show a distinct distribution in different brain areas. Heteromeric combinations of NR-1 members with different NR-2 subunits result in NMDA receptors displaying different pharmaceutical properties. Possible therapeutic indications for NMDA NR-2B receptor subtype specific blockers include acute forms of neurodegeneration caused, e.g., by stroke and brain trauma, and chronic forms of neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), neurodegeneration associated with bacterial or viral infections, and, in addition, depression and chronic and acute pain.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to a compound of formula

-   -   wherein     -   R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group         hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH;     -   R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently selected from the group         hydrogen and lower alkyl;     -   R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group         hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl         and hydroxy;     -   Ar is phenyl or thiophenyl;     -   the dotted line is selected from the group consisting of two         hydrogen atoms not forming a bridge and —CH₂—CHR′—, wherein R′         is H or lower alkyl; and     -   n is 0, 1 or 2;     -   or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof,         with the proviso that when Ar is unsubstituted phenyl and R² is         H, R¹ is not 2-amino.

6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine has been specifically described in J. Med. Chem., 1984, 27, 125 for use as antiallergic agent and in JACS, 1949, 71, 1186 as an intermediate in a condension reaction of N-substituted pyridones.

Compounds of formulae IA and IB of the present invention may have the following sub-structures:

-   -   R¹, R², R¹, R⁴ and R′ are as described above.

The compounds of formulae IA or IB or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are distinguished by valuable therapeutic properties. Compounds of the present invention are NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate)-receptor subtype selective blockers, which have a key function in modulating neuronal activity and plasticity which makes them key players in mediating processes underlying development of CNS as well as learning and memory formation.

The present invention relates to compounds of formulae IA and IB or harmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts thereof and the preparation of the compounds of formulae IA and IB or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing a compound of formulae IA, IB, a combination thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable vehicle and the manufacture of such pharmaceutical compositions. The present invention additionly relates to a method of treatment of acute forms of neurodegeneration caused, e.g., by stroke and brain trauma, and chronic forms of neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), neurodegeneration associated with bacterial or viral infections, and, in addition, depression and chronic and acute pain comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formulae Ia, lb or combinations thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following definitions of the general terms used in the present description apply irrespective of whether the terms in question appear alone or in combination.

As used herein, the term “lower alkyl” denotes a straight- or branched-chain alkyl group containing from 1 to 7 carbon atoms, for example, methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl and the like. Preferred lower alkyl groups contain from 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

The term “halogen” denotes chlorine, iodine, fluorine and bromine.

The term “lower alkoxy” denotes a group wherein the alkyl residue is as defined above and the alkyl group is connected via an oxygen atom.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt” embraces salts with inorganic and organic acids, such as hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, citric acid, formic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, acetic acid, succinic acid, tartaric acid, methane-sulfonic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid and the like.

Preferred compounds of formula IA-1, for example the following compounds are selected from the group:

-   trans-4-methyl-6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine, -   trans-2-styryl-pyridin-4-yl-amine and -   trans-C-(6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl)-methylamine.

Further preferred are compounds of formula IA-2, wherein R′ is hydrogen, for example compounds selected from the group:

-   2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   [4-amino-6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methanol, -   2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   [2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-methyl-amine, -   C-[6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methylamine, -   2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   2-(5,7-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine     and -   2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine.

Additional preferred compounds of formula IA-2 are further those, wherein R′ is methyl, for example the compounds selected from the group:

-   rac.-2-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, -   rac.-2-methyl-6-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine     and -   rac.-5-methyl-2-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine.

Preferred compounds of formula IA-4 are those, wherein R′ is hydrogen, for example the compounds selected from the group

-   2-(6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine and -   2-(6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine.

A preferred compound of formula IB-1 is, for example, the following compound:

-   trans-6-methyl-4-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine.

A further preferred group of compounds of formulae IA and IB are those, wherein one of R¹ or R² is amino.

The above-mentioned compounds of formulae IA and IB can be prepared in accordance with the invention by

-   -   reacting a compound of formula     -   with diphenyl phosphoryl azide forming a compound of formula     -   reacting the amino group of a compound of formula IA-1a with a         compound of formula R⁵X to give a compound of formula     -   wherein R²-R⁴ and Ar have the significances given above, R⁵ is         lower alkyl and X is halogen, or     -   reacting a compound of formula     -   with diphenyl phosphoryl azide to a compound of formula     -   wherein R²-R⁴ and Ar have the significances given above, or         reacting the amino group of a compound of formula IB-1a with a         compound of formula R⁵X to give a compound of formula     -   wherein R¹, R³ and R⁴ and Ar have the significances given above,         R⁵ is lower alkyl and X is halogen, or     -   reacting a compound of formula     -   with a compound of formula     -   to a compound of formula     -   wherein R¹ to R⁴ have the significances given above, or     -   reacting a compound of formula     -   with a compound of formula     -   o a compound of formula     -   wherein R¹ to R⁴ have the significances given above, or if         desired, converting the compound of formula I obtained into a         pharmaceutically acceptable salt.

In the following the preparation of compounds of formulae IA and IB are described in more detail:

In accordance with the process variants, described above, and with schemes 1-3, described below, compounds of formulae IA and IB may be prepared by known procedures, for example the following:

In accordance with schemes 1 and 2 a compound of formula IVA or IVB may be prepared as follows:

To a refluxing solution of 2-picoline-1-oxide or 4-picoline-1-oxide and potassium tert.-butanolate in butanol is added portionwise an aldehyde of formula VA. Reflux is maintained for about 90 min. Then the mixture is cooled, diluted and extracted. The combined organic phases are dried and concentrated to provide a compound of formulae IVA or IVB. The obtained compound is then reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization a compound of formulae IIIA or IIIB is obtained, for example 6-(2-p-tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carbonitrile (IIIA) or trans-6-methyl-4-styryl-pyridine-2-carbonitrile (IIIB). The corresponding carbonitrile compounds and HCl are further refluxed for 3 hr. All volatiles are distilled off and the residue is stirred with H₂O, filtered and dried to obtain a compound of formulae IIA or IIB. The most preferred compounds of formulae IA-1a or IB-1a, wherein one of R¹ or R² is amino, may then be prepared as follows: A compound of formula IIA or IIB is brought to reaction with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol. After extractive workup the residue is refluxed about 4 hr with HCl and after a further workup a compound of formula IA-1a or IB-1a is obtained. The amino group may then further modified by alkylation to obtain compounds of formulae IA-1b or IB-1b.

In accordance with scheme 3, a compound of formula IA-2 or IB-2 is obtained as follows: A compound of formula IX, for example 3-bromo-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene, is prepared in analogy to M. Adamczyk and D. S. Watt, J. Org. Chem., 1984, 49, 422.6. This compound is then solved in diethylether, cooled in a dry ice bath and tert.-butyllithium solution in pentane is added. The solution is stirred about for 30 min, then triisopropylborate is added. The reaction mixture is brought to rt and treated with HCl. After 15 min the organic phase is dried, evaporated and precipitated with pentane to provide a compound of formula X.

This compound is further treated with a compound of formula XIA or XIB as follows: A solution of a compound of formula XIA or XIB and palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) in toluene is stirred at room temperature (rt) for about 15 min. Then a compound of formula X and an aqueous K₂CO₃ solution is added and the resulting mixture is refluxed for about 30 min. Toluene is added and the organic phase is dried and concentrated to obtain a compound of formula IA-2 or IB-2.

Pharmaceutically acceptable salts can be manufactured according to methods which are known in the art. The acid addition salts of compounds of formulae IA and IB are especially well suited for pharmaceutical use.

In the following schemes 1-3 are described processes for preparation of compounds of formulae IA and IB, starting from known compounds, from commercial products or from compounds, which can be prepared in conventional manner.

The preparation of compounds of formulae IA and IB are described in more detail in working examples 1-41

The substitutents R¹ to R⁴ and Ar are described above and THF is tetrahydrofuran.

The substituents R¹, R³ and R⁴ and Ar are described above.

The substituents R¹, R², R³ and R⁴ and Ar are described above.

As mentioned earlier, the compounds of formulae IA and IB or their pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts possess valuable pharmacodynamic properties. They are NMDA-receptor subtype 2B selective blockers, which have a key function in modulating neuronal activity and plasticity which makes them key players in mediating processes underlying development of CNS as well as learning and memory formation.

The compounds were investigated in accordance with the test given hereinafter.

Test Method

³H-Ro 25-6981 binding (Ro 25-6981 is [R—(R*,S*)]-α-(4-Hydroxy-phenyl)-β-methyl-4-(phenyl-methyl)-1-piperidine propanol)

Male Fullinsdorf albino rats weighing between 150-200 g were used. Membranes were prepared by homogenization of the whole brain minus cerebellum and medulla oblongata with a Polytron (10.000 rpm, 30 seconds), in 25 volumes of a cold Tris-HCl 50 mM, EDTA 10 mM, pH 7.1 buffer. The homogenate was centrifuged at 48,000 g for 10 minutes at 4° C. The pellet was resuspended using the Polytron in the same volume of buffer and the homogenate was incubated at 37° C. for 10 minutes. After centrifugation the pellet was homogenized in the same buffer and frozen at −80° C. for at least 16 hours but not more than 10 days. For the binding assay the homogenate was thawed at 37° C., centrifuged and the pellet was washed three times as above in a Tris-HCl 5 mM, pH 7.4 cold buffer. The final pellet was resuspended in the same buffer and used at a final concentration of 200 mg of protein/ml.

³H-Ro 25-6981 binding experiments were performed using a Tris-HCl 50 mM, pH 7.4 buffer. For displacement experiments 5 nM of ³H-Ro 25-6981 were used and non specific binding was measured using 10 mM of tetrahydroisoquinoline and usually it accounts for 10% of the total. The incubation time was 2 hours at 4° C. and the assay was stopped by filtration on Whatmann GF/B glass fiber filters (Unifilter-96, Packard, Zurich, Switzerland). The filters were washed 5 times with cold buffer. The radioactivity on the filter was counted on a Packard Top-count microplate scintillation counter after addition of 40 mL of microscint 40 (Can berra Packard S. A., Zuirich, Switzerland).

The above procedure was performed to determine data for calculation of an IC₅₀ value. The IC₅₀ value is a concentration expressed in micromoles (μM) for a test compound at which 50% of the ligand (in this determination, ³H-Ro 25-6981) bonded to the receptor is displaced. The binding ability of the compounds of the invention was measured in vitro using a minimum of 10 concentrations and repeated at least once. The specific binding at each concentration was then calculated as the % of the maximum specific binding (100%) obtained in the same experiment, in the absence of a test compound. Competitive displacement of ³H-Ro 25-6981 was observed, with complete displacement of the radioligand from specific binding sites (usually about 0% of specific binding at the highest concentrations tested). An IC₅₀ value was then calculated with all the ten datapoints (% of specific bound) by plotting the data on a semilogarithmic scale with a sigmoidal fit (Log of the molar concentration on X-axis vs. % of specific bound on the Y-axis) using Microsoft Excel fit software or Microcal Origin software. The pooled normalized values were analyzed using a non-linear regression calculation program which provide IC₅₀ with their relative upper and lower 95% confidence limits.

The IC₅₀ (μM) of preferred compounds of formulae IA or IB, tested in accordance with the above mentioned methods, is <0.1 μM. In table I below representative IC₅₀ values are described. TABLE I Example No. IC₅₀ (μM) 14 0.01 16 0.04 18 0.08 19 0.018 22 0.032 24 0.011 26 0.038 27 0.052 28 0.038 30 0.02 34 0.057 36 0.023 37 0.082 13 0.03

The compounds of formulae IA, IB or combinations thereof and their salts, as herein described, can be incorporated into standard pharmaceutical dosage forms, for example, for oral or parenteral application with the usual pharmaceutical adjuvant materials, for example, organic or inorganic inert carrier materials, such as, water, gelatin, lactose, starch, magnesium stearate, talc, vegetalbe oils, gums, polyalkylene-glycols and the like. The pharmaceutical preparations can be employed in a solid form, for example, as tablets, suppositories, capsules, or in liquid form, for example, as solutions, suspensions or emulsions. Pharmaceutical adjuvant materials can be added and include preservatives stabilizers, wetting or emulsifying agents, salts to change the osmotic pressure or to act as buffers. The pharmaceutical preparations can also contain other therapeutically active substances.

The dosage can vary within wide limits and will, of course, be fitted to the individual requirements in each particular case. In the case of oral administration the dosage lies in the range of about 0.1 mg per dosage to about 1000 mg per day of a compound of general formula I although the upper limit can also be exceeded when this is shown to be indicated.

The following examples illustrate the present invention in more detail. However, they are not intended to limit its scope in any manner. All temperatures are given in degree Celsius.

EXAMPLE 1 6-Styryl-pyridin-2-ylamine hydrochloride

Prepared according to the literature: Y. Honma et al., J. Med. Chem., 1984, 27, 125.

EXAMPLE 2 6-(2-p-Tolyl-vinyl)-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-(2-p-Tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine 1-oxide

To a refluxing solution of 2-picoline-1-oxide (10.9 g, 100 mmol), potassium tert.-butanolate (11.2 g, 100 mmol) in butanol (100 ml) was added portion-wise p-tolualdehyde (12.0 g, 100 mmol). Reflux was maintained for 90 min. Then the mixture was cooled to rt, diluted with H₂O (100 ml) and extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organic phases were dried with MgSO₄, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=95:5) to provide the title compound (11.6 g, 55%) as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=211 (M⁺).

b) 6-(2-p-Tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

In a variation to the procedure referred to in example 1, 2-(2-p-tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine 1-oxide (9.8 g, 46 mmol) was reacted first with dimethylsulfate (5.8 g, 46 mmol) and then with NaCN (2.74 g, 56 mmol). After extraction and crystallization 6-(2-p-tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carbonitrile (5.8 g, 57%) was obtained as a yellow crystalline material. Mp. 137-138° C. (isopropanol), MS: m/e=220 (M⁺)

c) 6-(2-p-Tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

In a variation to the procedure referred to in examplel, 6-(2-p-tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carbonitrile (3.0 g, 14 mmol) and 37% HCl (70 ml) was refluxed for 3 hr. All volatiles were distilled off and the residue stirred with H₂O (100 ml), filtered and dried over NaOH to obtain the title compound (2.81 g, 84%) as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=239 (M⁺).

d) 6-(2-p-Tolyl-vinyl)-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

In a variation to the procedure referred to in examplel, 6-(2-p-tolyl-vinyl)-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid (2.81 g, 11.7 mmol) was brought to reaction with triethylamine (1.21 g, 12.0 mmol), diphenyl phosphoryl azide (3.56 g, 12.9 mmol) and butanol (33 ml). After extractive workup the residue was refluxed (4 hr) with 3N HCl. Extractive workup and chromatography (SiO₂ with AcOEt/hexane/NEt₃=10:20:1) afforded the title compound as an oil which was crystallized as the yellow hydrochloride salt (0.95 g, 33%). Mp.>250° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=210 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 3 6-[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and p-anisaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=227 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine l-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material. Mp. 121-122° C. (isopropanol), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺)

c) 6-[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=255 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(4-Methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp. 224-226° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=226 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 4 6-[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 4-chloro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=231 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(4-chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a beige crystalline material. Mp. 113-115° C. (isopropanol), MS: m/e=240 (M⁺).

c) 6-[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(4-chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=259 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(4-chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=231 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 5 6-[2-(3,4-Dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(3,4-Dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 3,4-dichloro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=265 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(3,4-Dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(3,4-dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material. Mp. 124-125° C. (hexane), MS: m/e=274 (M⁺).

c) 6-[2-(3,4-Dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(3,4-dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=293 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(3,4-Dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(3,4-dichloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (EtOH), MS: m/e=265 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 6 6-[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 4-fluoro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=215 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=224 (M⁺).

c) 6-[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylicacid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=243 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(4-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=214 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 7 6-[2-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 3-chloro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=231 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(4-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material which was directly used for the next step.

c) 6-[2-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(3-chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=259 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(3-Chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(3-chloro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp. 248-249° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=230 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 8 6-[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 2-fluoro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=215 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallisation the title compound was obtained as a brown crystalline material. MS: m/e=224 (M⁺).

c) 6-[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material which was directly used in the next step.

d) 6-[2-(2-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=214 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 9 6-[2-(3-Trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(3-Trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 3-trifluoromethyl-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=265 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(3-Trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and chromatography (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=97/3) the title compound was obtained as a yellow oil and directly used in the next step.

c) 6-[2-(3-Trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 25% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=293 (M⁺).

d) 6-[2-(3-Trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(3-trifluoromethyl-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp. 222-223° C. (iPrOH), MS: m/e=264 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 10 6-[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 2-[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2-picoline-1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and 3-fluoro-benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material. MS: m/e=215 (M⁺).

b) 6-[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-[2-(3-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and crystallization the title compound was obtained as a beige crystalline material. Mp. 111-112° C. (iPrOH), MS: m/e=224 (M⁺).

c) 6-[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-[2-(3-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 37% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material which was directly used in the next step.

d) 6-[2-(3-Fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a light yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-[2-(3-fluoro-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridine 2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=214 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 11 4-[2-(6-Amino-pyridin-2-yl)-vinyl]-phenol

A suspension of 6-[2-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-vinyl]-pyridin-2-yl-amine (1.0 g, 3.8 mmol) (example 3) in CH₂Cl₂ (60 ml) was treated with boron tribromide (2.4 ml, 25 mmol) and stirred for 72 hr. The precipitate was filtered, dissolved in AcOEt and washed with aqueous NaHCO₃ solution. The organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated and the residue was chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH/NH₄OH=140/10/1) and crystallized to provide 0.20 g (25%) of the light yellow title compound. Mp. 224-225° C. (iPr₂O), MS: m/e=213 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 12 trans-4-Styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine

Prepared according to the literature: R. Adams, A. W. Schrecker, JACS, 1949, 71, 1186

EXAMPLE 13 trans-6-Methyl-4-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine a) trans-2-Methyl-4-styryl-pyridine 1-oxide

Following the general method described in example 2a, 2,4-dimethylpyridine 1-oxide was reacted with potassium tert.-butanolate and benzaldehyde. After extraction and chromatography (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=97/3) the title compound was obtained as a yellow solid material (yield 7%). NMR (250 MHz, DMSO): 2.37 (s, 3H, CH ₃), 7.20 (d, J=16.5 Hz, 1H, CH═CH), 7.25-7.75 (m, 8H, arom-H, CH═CH), 8.22 (d, J=6.8 Hz, 1H, arom-H).

b) trans-6-Methyl-4-styryl-pyridine-2-carbonitrile

Following the general method described in example 2b, 2-methyl-4-styryl-pyridine 1-oxide was reacted first with dimethylsulfate and then with NaCN. After extraction and chromatography (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂) the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material. MS: m/e=220 (M⁺).

c) trans-6-Methyl-4-styryl-pyridin-2-carboxylic acid

Following the general method described in example 2c, 6-methyl-4-styryl-pyridine-2-carbonitrile was hydrolyzed with 25% HCl. After workup the title compound was isolated as a yellow crystalline material which was directly used in the next step.

d) trans-6-Methyl-4-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine

Following the general method described in example 2d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-methyl-4-styryl-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp. 149-150° C. (iPr₂O), MS: m/e=210 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 14 trans-4-Methyl-6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine hydrochloride

In analogy to example 2a-d, the title compound was obtained as a yellow crystalline material by reaction of 4-methyl-2-styryl-pyridine 1-oxide (A. Silhankova et al., Collect. Czech. Chem. Commun., 1989, 54, 1687) with dimethylsulfate followed by NaCN, hydrolysis with HCl followed by treatment with triethylamine, diphenyl phosphoryl azide and butanol followed by hydrolysis with HCl. Mp.>250° C. (EtOH), MS: m/e=210 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 15 trans-6-Styryl-pyridin-3-yl-amine

Under inert atmosphere (Ar) a mixture of palladium(II)-acetate (0.45 g, 2 mmol) and triphenylphosphine (0.95 g, 3.6 mmol) in DMF (50 ml) was stirred for 0.5 hr at rt. Then 2-chloro-5-nitropyridine (3.2 g, 20 mmol) and tributyl-styryl-stannane (15.7 g, 40 mmol) was added and the mixture was stirred at 130° C. for 15 hr. The solvent was evaporated and the residue partitioned between AcOEt and 1N HCl. The aqueous phase was neutralized with 6N NaOH and extracted with AcOEt. The organic phase was dried with Na₂SO₄, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO2 with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH=97/3) to give the title compound (0.90 g, 23%) as a yellow solid. Mp. 159-160° C. (AcOEt), MS: 196 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 16 trans-2-Styryl-pyridin-4-yl-amine

Under inert atmosphere (Ar) a mixture of palladium-(II)-acetate (0.117 mg, 0.5 mmol) and triphenylphosphine (0.248 g, 0.9 mmol) in DMF (13 ml) was stirred for 30 min at rt. 2-Bromo-pyridin-4-ylamine (0.90 g, 5.2 mmol) (H. J. den Hertog, C. R. Kolder and W. P. Combe, Rec. Trav. Chim., 1951, 70, 591) was added followed by tributyl-styryl-stannane (3.93 g, 10 mmol). After heating at 130° C. for 15 min the solvent was evaporated and the residue partitioned between AcOEt and 3N HCl. The aqueous phase was neutralized with 6N NaOH and extracted with AcOEt. The organic phase was dried with Na₂SO₄, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH/NH₄OH=140/10/1) to give the title compound (0.40 g, 39%) as a colorless solid. Mp. 164-165° C. (AcOEt), MS: 196 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 17 trans-Methyl-(6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl)-amine hydrochloride

A solution of 6-styryl-pyridin-2-ylamine (1.0 g, 4.3 mmol) (cf. example 1) in methanol (40 ml) was treated at rt with aqueous formaldehyde (0.33 ml of an 40% solution, 4.3 mmol) and sodium cyanoborohydride (0.27 g, 4.3 mmol). After 1 hr all volatiles were evaporated and the residue was dissolved in AcOEt. The organic phase was successively washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃, H₂O, saturated aqueous citric acid and water, then dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated and chromatographed (SiO2 with AcOEt/hexane/NEt₃=10/10/1). The free base of the title compound was obtained as a slightly yellow oil (0.18 g, 20%) and crystallized as the yellow hydrochloride. Mp. 157-158° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=210 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 18 trans-C-(6-Styryl-pyridin-2-yl)-methylamine hydrochloride

A solution of 6-styryl-pyridin-2-carbonitril (0.94 g, 4.5 mmol) (cf. example 1) in THF (20 ml) was cooled to 0° C. After dropwise addition of diisobutylaluminiumhydride (8.0 ml of a 1.2 M solution in toluene) the resulting mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 1 hr and then quenched with saturated Seignette-salt solution. After extraction with AcOEt the combined organic phases were dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH/NH₄OH=140/10/1) to give the free base of the title compound as a yellow oil (0.16 g, 17%) which was crystallized as a beige hydrochloride salt. Mp. 170° C. (dec.) (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=210 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 19 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine hydrochloride a) 4-Dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

A solution of 3-bromo-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene (7.7 g, 37 mmol) (M. Adamczyk and D. S. Watt, J. Org. Chem., 1984, 49, 4226) in diethylether (370 ml) was cooled in a dry ice bath and tert.-butyllithium solution (50 ml of a 1.5 M solution in pentane) was added maintaining T<-65° C. At this temperature stirring was continued for 30 min, then triisopropylborate (17.3 ml, 75 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was brought to rt and treated with 3N HCl (100 ml). After 15 min the organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄), evaporated and precipitated with pentane to provide the title compound (3.83 g, 60%) as a white solid material. MS: m/e=173 (M−H⁻).

b) 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 hydrochloride

A solution of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine (0.87 g, 5 mmol) and palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine) (0.58 g, 0.5 mmol) in toluene (25 ml) was stirred at rt for 15 min. Then, 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (0.88 g, 5 mmol) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution (5 ml) was added and the resulting mixture refluxed for 30 min. Toluene (50 ml) was added and the organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH/NH₄OH=300/10/1) to give the free base of the title compound (0.72 g, 65%) as a colorless foam. Treatment with hydrogen chloride gave white crystals, Mp. 231-232° C. (EtOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=222 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 20 6-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound, was obtained as a light yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-bromo-pyridin-2-ylamine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 153-154° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=223 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 21 6-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-4-methyl-pyridin-2-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a light yellow crystalline material by reaction of 6-bromo-4-methyl-pyridin-2-ylamine (A. Kleeman, D. Munro, B. Patel, Eur. Pat. 572093, Dec. 1, 1993) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 142-143° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=237 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 22 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-6-methyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (A. Puszko, Pr. Nauk. Akad. Ekon. im. Oskara Langego Wroclawiu, 1984, 278, 169) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 202-203° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 23 [4-Amino-6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methanol fumarate a) 6-Bromo-4-nitro-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid

To a solution of 2-bromo-6-methyl-4-nitro-pyridine (17.8 g, 82.0 mmol) (A. Puszko, Pr. Nauk. Akad. Ekon. im. Oskara Langego Wroclawiu, 1984, 278, 169) in conc. H₂SO₄ (100 ml) CrO₃ (32.8 g, 328 mmol) was added maintaining T<55° C. After 4 hr the mixture was heated to 70° C. for 30 min and then cooled to rt. Ice-cold water (500 ml) was added maintaining T<70° C. The mixture was left overnight. The title compound crystallized as a beige material (76%). Mp. 173-175° C. (H₂O), MS: m/e=246 (M⁺).

b) (4-Amino-6-bromo-pyridin-2-yl)-methanol

A solution of 6-bromo-4-nitro-pyridine-2-carboxylic acid (6.60 g, 29.1 mmol) in THF (150 ml) was treated with borane/THF (87 ml of a 1M solution). The mixture was refluxed for 6 hr, then powdered iron (16.3 g, 291 mmol) was added, followed by acetic acid (150 ml). Reflux was maintained for 6 hr, the mixture was filtered, evaporated and partitioned (AcOEt/aqueous NaHCO₃-solution). The organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH=93/7) to provide 2.0 g (34%) of the title compound as a white solid material. Mp. 144-145° C. (AcOEt), MS: m/e=202 (M⁺).

c) [4-Amino-6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methanol 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as an off-white crystalline material by reaction of (4-amino-6-bromo-pyridin-2-yl)-methanol with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 113° C. (dec) (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=252 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 24 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as an off-white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-5-methyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (A. Puszko, Z. Talik, Pol. Pr. Nauk. Akad. Ekon. Im. Oskara Langego Wroclawiu, 1980, 167, 177) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp.>200° C. dec. (MeOH), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 25 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-3-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a dark grey crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-3-methyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (A. Puszko, Z. Talik, Pol. Pr. Nauk. Akad. Ekon. Im. Oskara Langego Wroclawiu, 1980, 167, 177) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃. Mp. 87-88° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 26 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a) 2-Bromo-6-ethyl-pyridine 1-oxide

To a solution of 2-bromo-6-ethyl-pyridine (15.4 g, 82.8 mmol) (S. G. Davies and M. R. Shipton, J. Chem. Soc., Perkin Trans. 1, 1991, 3, 501) in acetic acid (15 ml) peracetic acid (26 ml of a 39% solution) was added maintaining T<50° C. After completed addition the mixture was stirred at 50° C. for 5 hr and then cooled to rt. Crushed ice (40 g) was added and the mixture was made basic (pH 12) using 40% KOH solution. After extraction with CHCl₃ (6×60 ml) the combined organic phases were dried (Na₂CO₃) and evaporated to give 20.0 g (>100%) of the title compound, MS: m/e=201 (M⁺) as a yellow oil.

b) 2-Bromo-6-ethyl-4-nitro-pyridine 1-oxide

With ice bath cooling HNO₃ (100%, 25 ml) was added dropwise to 2-bromo-6-ethyl-pyridine 1-oxide (20.0 g, 99 mmol), followed by H₂SO₄ (98%, 17 ml). The mixture was stirred at 90° C. for 90 min and then cooled to rt. Crushed ice (500 g) was added and the mixture was made basic (pH 12) using 28% NaOH solution. After extraction with AcOEt (4×250 ml) the combined organic phases were dried (Na₂CO₃) and evaporated to give 15.9 g (65%) of a yellow solid mass which was directly used in the next step

c) 2-Bromo-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine

A solution of 2-bromo-6-ethyl-4-nitro-pyridine 1-oxide (15.9 g, 69 mmol) in acetic acid (310 ml) was treated with powdered iron (25.8 g, 462 mmol). The mixture was slowly heated to 100° C. and kept for 1 hr. Then the reaction mixture was cooled to rt and filtered. After evaporation of the solvent the residue was crystallized to yield the title compound as a beige material (88%). Mp. 75-77° C. (pentane), MS: m/e=200 (M⁺).

d) 2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a beige crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp.>230° C. dec. (MeOH), MS: m/e=250 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 27 [2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-methyl-amine fumarate a) [2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-carbamic acid ethyl ester

A solution of 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine (0.80 g, 3.6 mmol) in pyridine (20 ml) was cooled to 0° C. and ethylchloroformate (0.47 g, 4.3 mmol) was slowly added. Stirring was continued for 72 hr. Then the solvent was evaporated and the residue was partitioned (AcOEt/H₂O). The organic phase was dried (MgSO₄), concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH=98/2) to give the title compound (0.36 g, 36%) as a yellow oil. MS: m/e=294 (M⁺).

b) [2-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-methyl-amine 1:1 fumarate

A solution of N-[2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-oxalamic acid ethyl ester (0.36 g, 1.2 mmol) in THF (20 ml) was slowly added to an ice bath cooled mixture of lithium aluminum hydride (0.10 g, 2.6 mmol) in THF (20 ml). The resulting mixture was refluxed for 30 min, quenched with aqueous saturated Seignette-salt solution and extracted with AcOEt. The organic phase was dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH/NH₄OH=140/10/1) to give [2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-methyl-amine as a yellow oil (0.12 g, 42%) which was crystallized as the white fumarate salt. Mp. 106-107° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 28 C-[6-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methylamine hydrochloride a) 2-(6-Bromo-pyridin-2-yl-methyl)-isoindole-1,3-dione

A solution of (6-bromo-pyridin-2-yl)-methanol (3.37 g, 17.9 mmol) (H. Tsukube et al., J. Org. Chem., 1993, 58, 4389), triphenylphosphine (5.17 g, 19.7 mmol) and phtalimide (2.90 g, 19.7 mmol) in THF was cooled in an ice bath. A solution of diethylazodicarboxylate (3.43 g, 19.7 mmol) in THF (15 ml) was added slowly and the mixture was left to reach rt. Stirring was continued for 17 hr, then the solvent was distilled off and the residue chromatographed (SiO₂ with hexane/AcOEt=4/1) to provide 3.42 g (66%) of the title compound as a colorless viscous oil. MS: m/e=316 (M+H⁺).

b) 2-[6-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl-methyl]-isoindole-1,3-dione

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-(6-bromo-pyridin-2-yl-methyl)-isoindole-1,3-dione with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 19a) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃. MS: m/e=366 (M⁺).

c) C-[6-(3,4-Dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methylamine 1:1 hydrochloride

A solution of 2-[6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl-methyl]-isoindole-1,3-dione (0.88 g, 2.4 mmol) in ethanol (25 ml) was treated with hydrazine hydrate (0.36 g, 7.2 mmol) and refluxed for 2 hr. The cooled mixture was filtered, concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂/CH₃OH/NH₄OH=140/10/1) to give the free base of the title compound as a colorless oil (0.45 g, 79%) which was crystallized as the white hydrochloride salt. Mp. 203-204° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 29 2-(6,7-Dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a) 5-Bromo-6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophene

In analogy to the synthesis of 3-bromo-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene (referred to in example 19a) a cooled (10° C.) solution of 6,7-dihydro-5H-benzo[b]thiophen-4-one (10 g, 65.7 mmol) in ether (100 ml) was treated dropwise with bromine (3.5 ml, 65.7 mmol). After 1 hr the reaction mixture was successively extracted with ice water (twice) and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃. The organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated and directly used in the next step.

The bromoketone was dissolved in a mixture of THF (115 ml) and EtOH (115 ml). Sodium borohydride (1.9 g, 50 mmol) was added and the mixture was stirred for 90 min at rt. After addition of aqueous HCl (1N, 90 ml) all volatiles were evaporated. The oily residue was partitioned (toluene/H₂O=125 ml: 50 ml) and the organic phase directly used in the next step.

To the solution of the bromoalkohol in toluene was added p-toluenesulfonic acid (0.65 g, 3.5 mmol) and the mixture was refluxed for 15 hr. Then aqueous NaOH (1N, 65 ml) was added, and the organic phase was dried (MgSO₄), concentrated and chromatographed (SiO₂ with hexane) to provide 3.7 g (26%) of the title compound as a yellow oil. ¹H-Nmr (250 MHz, CDCl₃): δ=2.87 and 2.98 (mc, CH ₂), 6.74 (s, 1H, CH═CBr), 6.75-6.82 (m, 2H, arom-H).

b) 6,7-Dihydro-benzo[bl thiophene-5-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, 5-bromo-6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophene was reacted with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. The title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material after chromatography (SiO₂ with CH₂Cl₂—MeOH=98:2). MS: m/e=179 (M−H⁻).

c) 2-(6,7-Dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophene-5-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 199-200° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=228 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 30 2-(7-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-ylamine fumarate a) 3-Bromo-6-chloro-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the general method described in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 7-chloro-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. ¹H-Nmr (250 MHz, CDCl₃): =2.76 and 2.86 (mc, CH ₂), 6.73 (s, 1H, CH═CBr), 6.95 (d, J=2 Hz, 1H, arom-H), 7.01 (d, J=8 Hz, 1H, arom-H).), 7.10 (dd, J=8 Hz, J=2 Hz, 1H, arom-H).

b)-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 3-bromo-6-chloro-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. Mp. 151-152° C. (pentane), MS: m/e=207 (M−H⁻).

c) 2-(7-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-ylamine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 205-207° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=250 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 31 2-(5-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a)-Bromo-8-methoxy-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the general method described in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 5-methoxy-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. ¹H-Nmr (250 MHz, CDCl₃): δ=2.74 and 2.94 (mc, CH ₂), 3.82 (s, 3H, OCH ₃), 6.62 (d, J=8 Hz, 1H, arom-H), 6.75 (s, 1H, CH═CBr), 6.76 (d, J=8 Hz, 1H, arom-H), 7.11 (t, J=8 Hz, 1H, arom-H).

b)-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 3-bromo-8-methoxy-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. Mp. 174-175° C. (pentane), MS: m/e=203 (M−H⁻).

c) 2-(5-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-ylamine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 5-methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 207-208° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=252 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 32 2-(5,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a) 3-Bromo-5,8-dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the method referred to in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 5,8-dimethyl-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

b) 8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 3-bromo-5,8-dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. Mp. 163-164° C. (pentane), MS: m/e=261 (M+OAc⁻).

c) 2-(5,8-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 5,8-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 232-233° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=250 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 33 2-(7-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a) 3-Bromo-6-methoxy-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the method referred to in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 7-methoxy-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. ¹H-Nmr (250 MHz, CDCl₃): δ=2.76 and 2.86 (mc, CH ₂), 3.76 (s, CH ₃), 6.54 (d, J=3 Hz, 1H, arom-H), 6.68 (dd, J=8 Hz, J=3 Hz, 1H, arom-H), 6.75 (s, 1H, CH═CBr), 7.00 (d, J=8 Hz, 1H, arom-H).

b) 7-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a white solid material by reaction of 3-bromo-6-methoxy-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. MS: m/e=263 (M+OAc⁻).

c) 2-(7-Methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a beige crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 7-methoxy-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 193-194° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=252 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 34 2-(5,7-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate a) 3-Bromo-6,8-dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the method referred to in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 5,7-dimethyl-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. MS: m/e=236 (M⁺).

b) 5,7-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a white solid material by reaction of 3-bromo-6,8-dimethyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCl. MS: m/e=261 (M+OAc⁻).

c) 2-(5,7-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 5,7-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 231-232° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=250 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 35 rac.-2-(4-Methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine funarate a) rac.-3-Bromo-1-methyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene

Following the method referred to in example 29a, the title compound was obtained as a colorless oil by reaction of 4-methyl-1-tetralone with bromine, sodium borohydride and p-toluenesulfonic acid. MS: m/e=222 (M⁺).

b) rac.-4-Methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid

Following the general method described in example 19a, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of rac.-3-bromo-1-methyl-1,2-dihydro-naphthalene with tert.-butyllithium solution followed by triisopropylborate and 3N HCll. MS: m/e=187 (M−H⁻).

c) rac.-2-(4-Methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine 1:1 fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-pyridin-4-yl-amine with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), rac.-4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ solution and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 176-177° C. (MeOH/Et₂O), MS: m/e=237 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 36 2-(7-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (cf example 26c) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (cf example 30b) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 232-233° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=285 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 37 2-(7-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-6-methyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (cf example 22) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (cf example 30b) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 232-233° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=271 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 38 rac.-2-Methyl-6-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as an off-white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine (cf example 22) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), rac.-4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (cf example 35b) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 183-185° C. dec. (MeOH), MS: m/e=250 (M⁺).

EXAMPLE 39 2-(7-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine (cf example 24) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (cf example 30b) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp.>250° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=271 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 40 rac.-5-Methyl-2-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound, was obtained as a white crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine (cf example 24) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), rac.-4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalene-2-boronic acid (example 35b) and aqueous 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 210-211° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=251 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE 41 2-(6,7-Dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine fumarate

Following the general method described in example 19b, the title compound was obtained as a light yellow crystalline material by reaction of 2-bromo-5-methyl-pyridin-4-ylamine (cf example 24) with palladium tetrakis(triphenylphosphine), 6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophene-5-boronic acid (cf example 29b) and 2M K₂CO₃ and crystallization of the free base as the fumarate salt. Mp. 218-219° C. (MeOH), MS: m/e=243 (M+H⁺).

EXAMPLE A

Tablet Formulation (Wet Granulation) mg/tablet Item Ingredients 5 mg 25 mg 100 mg 500 mg 1. Active Ingredient* 5 25 100 500 2. Lactose Anhydrous DTG 125 105 30 150 3. Sta-Rx 1500 6 6 6 30 4. Microcrystalline Cellulose 30 30 30 150 5. Magnesium Stearate 1 1 1 1 Total 167 167 167 831 *A compound of formula 1A, 1B or a combination thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Manufacturing Procedure

-   1 Mix items 1, 2, 3 and 4 and granulate with purified water. -   2. Dry the granulation at 50° C. -   3. Pass the granulation through suitable milling equipment. -   4. Add item 5 and mix for three minutes; compress on a suitable     press.

EXAMPLE B

Capsule Formulation mg/capsule Item Ingredients 5 mg 25 mg 100 mg 500 mg 1. Active Ingredient 5 25 100 500 2. Hydrous Lactose 159 123 148 — 3. Corn Starch 25 35 40 70 4. Talc 10 15 10 25 5. Magnesium Stearate 1 2 2 5 Total 200 200 300 600 Manufacturing Procedure

-   1 Mix items 1, 2, and 3 in a suitable mixer for 30 minutes. -   2. Add items 4 and 5 and mix for 3 minutes. -   3. Fill into a suitable capsule. -   4. Add item 5 and mix for three minutes; compress on a suitable     press. 

1. A compound of formulae

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; Ar is selected from the group phenyl and thiophenyl; The dotted line is selected from the group two hydrogens not forming a bridge, and —CH₂—CHR′—, wherein R′ is selected from the group lower alkyl and hydrogen; and n is 0, 1 or 2; or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof, with the proviso that when ar is unsubstituted phenyl and R² is H, R¹ is not 2-amino.
 2. A compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group of hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.
 3. A compound of formula IA-1 according to claim 2, selected from the group trans-4-methyl-6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine, trans-2-styryl-pyridin-4-yl-amine and trans-C-(6-styryl-pyridin-2-yl)-methylamine.
 4. A compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; and R′ is selected from the group lower alkyl and hydrogen; or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.
 5. A compound of formula IA-2 according to claim 4, wherein R′ is hydrogen.
 6. A compound of formula IA-2 according to claim 5, selected from the group 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, [4-amino-6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methanol, 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl]-methyl-amine, C-[6-(3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-2-yl]-methylamine, 2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(5,7-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-ethyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine, 2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-6-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine and 2-(7-chloro-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine.
 7. A compound of formula IA-2 according to claim 4, wherein R′ is methyl.
 8. A compound of formula IA-2 according to claim 7, selected from the group rac.-2-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine, rac.-2-methyl-6-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine and rac.-5-methyl-2-(4-methyl-3,4-dihydro-naphthalen-2-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine.
 9. A compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; R′ is selected from the group lower alkyl and hydrogen; and n is 0, 1 or 2; or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.
 10. A compound of formula IA-4 according to claim 9, wherein R′ is hydrogen.
 11. A compound of formula IA-4 according to claim 10, selected from the group 2-(6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-pyridin-4-yl-amine and 2-(6,7-dihydro-benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-5-methyl-pyridin-4-yl-amine.
 12. A compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵′ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt thereof.
 13. A compound of formula IB-1 according to claim 12, which is trans-6-methyl-4-styryl-pyridin-2-yl-amine.
 14. A compound of formula IA or IB according to claim 1, wherein one of R¹ or R² is amino.
 15. A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of formula IA or IB of claim 1, combinations thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 16. A method of treatment of diseases responsive to therapeutic indications for NMDA receptor subtype specific blockers, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and neurodegeneration associated with bacterial or viral infections, and, in addition, depression and chronic or acute pain comprising administering a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formulae 1A or IB according to claim 1, combinations thereof or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to a patient in need of such treatment.
 17. A process for preparing a compound of formula IA-la comprising a) reacting a compound of formula

with diphenyl phosphoryl azide, forming a compound of formula

wherein R² is selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵′ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵′ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; Ar is selected from the group phenyl and thiophenyl and n is 0, 1 or
 2. 18. A process for preparing a compound of formula IA-1b comprising reacting the amino group of a compound of formula

with a compound of formula R⁵X, forming a compound of formula

wherein R² is selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R^(5′) and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; Ar is selected from the group phenyl and thiophenyl; R⁵ is lower alkyl; X is halogen; and; n is 0, 1 or
 2. 19. A process for preparing a compound of formulae IIB-1a, comprising: reacting a compound of formula

with diphenyl phosphoryl azide forming a compound of formula

wherein R² is selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; Ar is selected from the group phenyl and thiophenyl; R⁵ is lower alkyl; and; n is 0, 1 or
 2. 20. A process for preparing a compound of formula IIB-1b comprising: reacting the amino group of a compound of formula

with a compound of formula R⁵X forming a compound of formula

wherein R¹ is selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R^(5′) are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; Ar is selected from the group phenyl and thiophenyl; X is halogen; and n is 0, 1 or
 2. 21. A process for preparing a compound of formulae IA-2 comprising: reacting a compound of formula

with a compound of formula

forming a compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R^(5′) and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R⁵ are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; and n is 0, 1 or
 2. 22. A process for preparing a compound of formula IB-2 comprising: reacting a compound of formula

with a compound of formula

forming a compound of formula

wherein R¹ and R² are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, —(CH₂)_(n)NR⁵R⁵ and —(CH₂)_(n+1)OH; R⁵ and R^(5′) are each independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; and R³ and R⁴ are each independently selected from the group hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, halogen, trifluoromethyl and hydroxy; and n is 0, 1 or
 2. 